SCARCE Circus Van Amburgh & Co Great Golden Menagerie Salem, NY Poster Advertisement #1     *NOTE - I have 2 nearly identical posters available, this is the listing for #2

Wonderful scarce promotional colorful Giraffe poster for Van Amburgh & Co.'s Golden Menagerie held in Salem, NY, in the late 1800’s. Paper measures in total 14” w x 17 ¼” long (see photos for measurements) and it appears to be a hand-colored engraving.  This item is exactly as found & pictured - see all photos for specifics, frameable image area mostly intact. This is an old original item, exactly what you see in the photos...boards were used to hold item flat for photography, found rolled up in the attic of an old farmhouse near Salem, NY.

Isaac A. Van Amburgh (1808–1865) was an American animal trainer who developed the first trained wild animal act in modern times. By introducing jungle acts into the circus, Van Amburgh paved the way for combining menageries with circuses. After that, menageries began using equestrian and clown performances in circus rings - gradually the distinction between circus and menagerie faded. From the humble beginning of cage-cleaner in the Zoological Institute of New York, Van Amburgh quickly gained notoriety for his acts of daring, for example placing his bare arm and even head inside the jaws of a wild cat. Also known for his domineering attitude toward his animals, he earned the title "The Lion King."

We welcome reasonable offers, ship promptly & discount postage on multiple purchases